Thursday, September 27, 2012

Magic Triangle Presents Solos and Duos Music at UMass/Amherst on September 27


The Magic Triangle Series, which showcases Black music around the world, is presenting four musicians with distinct backgrounds - Satoko Fujii, Carla Kihlstedt, Natsuki Tamura and MatthiasBossi - to perform three duos at Berzason Recital Hall at the Fine Arts Center, University of Massachusetts in Amherst, on Thursday, September 27, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets to the show are $10 general admission and $5 for students. 

UMass/Amherst has a full schedule of jazz concerts this fall and winter. 

Find year round details on jazz in nightclubs, college campuses, concert venues, cafes and restaurants, hotels and other venues by visiting MassJazz.com.

For tourism information, visit MassVacation.com.



Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Jazz Festival in Falmouth, Cape Cod Taking Place September 25-30

Grace Kelly

JazzFest Falmouth 2012 is taking place in the beautiful seaside town of Falmouth, Cape Cod, from September 25 through September 30, 2012, at various venues around town.

Among the performers are jazz saxophonist Grace Kelly, blues vocalist Toni Lynn Washington, the Stage Door Canteen Big Band, pianist Eddie Scheer, jazz singer Michelle Cruze, the Bart Weisman Jazz Group, Russ Wilcox Group and many more.  Here's a complete line-up of jazz performers.

The Grace Kelly Quintet, which performs Saturday, September 29 at Highfield Theatre in Falmouth, features Jason Palmer on trumpet, Pete McCann on guitar, Evan Gregor on bass, and Jordan Perison on drums.

In addition, this year's JazzFest Falmouth includes a lecture by author Richard Vacca, a Friday Night Jazz Stroll along Main Street in Falmouth,  and a free master's class for students.  Here is the complete schedule.

JazzFest Falmouth 2012 is presented by ArtsFalmouth, a non-profit group that supports the celebration of Arts in Falmouth.

You can find year round information on live jazz and blues all across Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For tourist information, go to MassVacation.com or the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center.

Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival Takes Place in Boston on Saturday, September 29


The 12th annual Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival is taking place this Saturday, September 29, 2012, from noon to 6:00 p.m. in Boston's South End.  The event is free and open to the public!

Check out this blog account on MassVacation.com.

For year round details on jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For tourist information visit MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Berklee's Be-Bop Guitar Ensemble Performs at The Sahara Club on September 25

Jockos Jazz at the Sahara Club in Metheun in presenting The Be-Bop Guitars on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Admission is just $10 and payable at the door.

The band is an all-Berklee faculty guitar ensemble featuring five guitars along with trumpet, vibes, bass and drums, led by jazz guitarist and Berklee professor John Baboian

The group performs mainstream and contemporary Jazz, Latin & Blues styles. The original compositions and the original arrangements of jazz standards are written specifically for this unique sounding band. The musicians/educators in The Be-Bop Guitars have a combined 250+ years of teaching experience at Berklee.

Here are directions to the Sahara Club, located at 34 Bates Street in Metheun, MA.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.


Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Jazz Violinist Ben Powell & Quartet Perform in Rockport on Sunday, September 23


Ben Powell, who has been called the future of modern jazz, is leading his quartet in concert at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Sunday, September 23, 2012 at 5:00 p.m.

Tickets to the concert are $15, $22 and $28 and can be purchased online or at the concert hall.

A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Powell is an astonishingly gifted violinist who carries on the music of gypsy jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli while bringing his heightened musical sensibility to the tradition.  He has performed with Herbie Hancock, Paul Simon and other leading artists of our time.

Here is a full schedule of upcoming concerts presented by Rockport Music at Shalin Liu Performance Center.

Find year round details on jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com.

Joe Jackson Singing Duke Ellington Classics at Wilbur Theatre on September 19


Pop hit maker Joe Jackson is performing songs from Duke Ellington at the Wilbur Theatre in downtown Boston on Wednesday, September 19, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or at the theater.

Joining Jackson on the tour is jazz and classical violinist Regina Carter and a six piece jazz ensemble. Jackson's newest album is called The Duke.

Here is a schedule of upcoming shows at the Wilbur Theatre.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com

For tourism information, visit MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Tribute to John Coltrane at the Beehive in Boston on September 19


Saxophonist George Garzone is leading a tribute to John Coltrane at the Beehive Jazz Club in Boston's South End on Wednesday, September 19, 2012 from 8:00 p.m. to midnight.  There is no cover charge.

Born on September 23, 1926 in North Carolina, Coltrane emerged as one of the most influential musicians and composers of jazz in the 20th century.   He died in 1967.

Here is a calendar of upcoming performances at Beehive.

Find year round details on jazz clubs, concerts, weekend brunches, campus events, radio stations and other jazz-related activities at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.



Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Jazz from Row Six Photo Exhibit on Display in Springfield Through September 30

Photo of Clark Terry with Byron Stripling
Courtesy of Jean Germain 

Art for the Soul Gallery in Sprinfield is hosting a month-long exhibit of jazz photographs by noted photographer Jean Germain.

The exhibit, entitled Jazz from Row Six: 1981-2007, includes 50 photographs of numerous jazz legends who performed at the Jazz Club in Sarasota, FL, where Germain lives.

Some of the musicians featured include John and Bucky Pizzarelli, Clark Terry, Byron Stripling, Howard Alden, Milt Hinton, Tito Puente, Marion McPartland, Cleo Laine, Diana Krall and more. 

 A book by the same name, Jazz from Row Six: 1981-2007,  is also available for sale, and proceeds benefit the jazz program at Springfield’s High School of Science and Technology

Located at 235 State Street in the Classical High Condominiums, Art of the Soul Gallery is open to the public.  For more information call 413-231-4598 or 413-788-3903.

Read Sarah Platanatis' story on the exhibit on MassLive.com.

You can find year round jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com


Live Jazz in Boston / Massachusetts on Tuesday, September 18

(Image courtesy of Northampton Jazz Workshop)


Looking for great live jazz in Boston and Massachusetts on Tuesday, September 18, 2012?  Here's a few ideas from MassJazz.com:

Ralph Peterson
Doubletree Suites Hilton Hotel
400 Soldiers Field Road
Boston

Julian Shore
541 Tremont Street
South End, Boston

Wally's Stepchildren
427 Mass Avenue
South End, Boston

Yoko Miwa
129 South Street
Boston

Lance Houston Quartet
200 Seaport Blvd.
Seaport District, South Boston

Blue Horizon Jazz Band
Routes 16 & 27
Sherborn

Houston Person & Green Street Trio
Loft Lounge
Clarion Hotel
Northampton

Find a full list of jazz clubs, campus activities, weekend jazz brunches and more at MassJazz.com.  

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Governor Deval Patrick Declares Marion Brown Day in Massachusetts, September 15, 2012


Governor Deval Patrick has declared Saturday, September 15, 2012 as Marion Brown Day in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, to honor one of the great and often-unheralded alto saxophonists, composers and performers in jazz.

The recognition of Brown, who died in 2010,  coincides with the 2nd annual Northampton Jazz Festival taking place on September 15; Brown was a resident of Northampton for many years and helped to sustain a vibrant jazz scene in the area. Read Tom Reney's excellent article on Brown.

The proclamation describes Brown as "a roving ambassador for jazz, and the jazz communities of Northampton, MA and the Pioneer Valley, by recording and performing his music throughout the United States, Europe and Japan."

Brown also performed with Governor Patrick's father, Pat Patrick in the Sun Ra Arkestra.

For year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Friday, September 14, 2012

2nd annual Northampton Jazz Festival Takes Place on Saturday, September 15


The 2nd annual Northampton Jazz Festival is taking place in downtown Northampton, Massachusetts on Saturday, September 15, 2012 from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public. Here are directions to Hampton Street in Northampton.

Among the performers are jazz drummer and Grammy nominee Matt Wilson, baritone saxophone star Gary Smulyan and his Quartet, and jazz guitarist Sheryl Bailey

Also, this year's festival pays tribute to the late Marion Brown, an influential jazz saxophonist who lived in Northampton for a few decades.  Read this great article by Tom Reney about Marion Brown.

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick has officially proclaimed September 15 as Marion Brown Day in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Mr. Brown played in the Sun Ra Arkestra with Governor Patrick's father, baritone saxophonist Pat Patrick.

Here is a complete schedule of the Northampton Jazz Festival.

For year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For tourist information, go to MassVacation.com and Pioneer Valley.

1st annual Berkshires Gateway Jazz Weekend Taking Place in Lee on September 14-16

Jazz Vocalist and Pianist Karrin Allyson 

The first annual Berkshires Gateway Jazz Weekend is taking place from Friday, September 14 through Sunday, September 16, 2012 in Lee, Massachusetts.  Organized by the Lee Chamber of Commerce, the  jazz weekend is evokes the long history of great jazz taking place in the Berkshires.

Some of the featured performers include:

Sonny & Perley Quartet at the Spectrum Playhouse at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, September 14;

Charles Neville at the Lee Meeting House/ First Congregational Church, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 15;

Karrin Allyson with the Amherst Jazz Orchestra at Lee Meeting House/ First Congregational Church, from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 15;

Other activities include jazz exhibits at local art galleries and a jazz brunch on Sunday.  Here is a complete schedule of jazz events around Lee over the weekend.  

Find a place to stay in the Berkshires here.

For year round details on jazz in Pittsfield and the Berkshires in western Massachusetts, visit Berkshiresjazz.org, and for jazz throughout Massachusetts, go to MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to Berkshires Visitor Bureau or MassVacation.com.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Jazz Singer John Minnock at Encore Lounge in Boston on September 9


Jazz and blues singer John Minnock appears tonight, September 9, and every Sunday night at the Encore Lounge in the Courtyard Marriott Hotel in Boston's theatre district, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

The Encore has live music most nights of the week. 

Find year round jazz in Massachusetts anytime by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Friday, September 7, 2012

John Kordalewski Trio Performs at Red House in Harvard Square on September 7


The John Kordalewski Trio, featuring vocalist Diane Richardson, bassist Dave Clark and pianist John Kordalewski, is performing at Red House Restaurant on Winthrop Street in Harvard Square, Cambridge, on Friday, September 7, 2012 from 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Here is a schedule of live music at Red House Restaurant

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com

For tourism information, visit MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.



Thursday, September 6, 2012

Highland Jazz Presents Phil Grenadier Quintet on September 8

Highland Jazz, now in its 30th year, is presenting the Phil Grenadier Quintet in concert on Saturday, September 8, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. at Newton South High School.

Tickets are $18 in advance and can be purchased online,  with discounts for seniors and students, or by calling781 232-1917.

For a full schedule of concerts in this year's Highland Jazz series, click here.

For year round details on jazz concerts, night clubs, campus events, radio stations, jazz organizations, festivals and other news, visit MassJazz.com.

You can also follow MassJazz on Facebook, Blog and Twitter.

For information on visiting Massachusetts anytime of year, go to MassVacation.com.




Top Jazz Brunches in Massachusetts

Michael Borgida Quartet at Luna Cafe in Cambridge

Looking for a great place to enjoy a jazz brunch in greater Boston and throughout Massachusetts this weekend?

MassJazz has pulled together a list Jazz Brunches in hotels, restaurants, cafes and clubs where you enjoy great local jazz and great food!

You can find year round live jazz anywhere in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com


Scullers Jazz Club is Boston's Top Jazz Venue, says Phoenix Newspaper


Congratulations to Scullers Jazz Club on being named the Best Jazz Venue in Boston for 2012.

Here is the Phoenix review, and a schedule of upcoming performances at Scullers.

You can find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.


Monday, September 3, 2012

The State of Jazz: Massachusetts Has Four Jazz Festivals in September

 Lalah Hathaway at BeanTown Fest

After a lively summer of outdoor jazz and blues festivals taking place all across Massachusetts, the "State of Jazz" is not finished, with four more jazz festivals slated to take place September in Boston, Cape Cod and Western Mass, according to MassJazz.com, which promotes the state's jazz scene throughout the year.

September 14-16
Berkshire Gateway Jazz Weekend
Spectrum Playhouse and First Congregational Church
Lee
Sonny and Perley and Quartet, Charles Neville, Karrin Allyson, and Amherst Jazz Orchestra, Dave Sporney, Musical Director.

September 15
Northampton Jazz Festival
Thornes Marketplace
Main Street
Northampton
Matt Wilson's Arts & Crafts Band, Gary Smulyan Quartet and Sheryl Bailey.

September 25-30
JazzFest Falmouth ‘12
Grace Kelly Quintet, Howard Alden, Dan Barrett, Harry Allen, Frank Tate, Toni Lynne Washington, Stage Door Canteen big band, Free Friday night "Jazz Stroll Down Main Street" with performers in 12 venues.

September 29
Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival
Massachusetts and Columbus Avenue
South End, Boston
This year’s theme is ‘Celebrate Women in Jazz.’
Performers include Terri Lyne Carrington and the Mosaic Project, Lalah Hathaway, Rebecca Cline, Hey Rim Jeon, Hailey Niswanger, New World Composers Octet and more.
beantownjazz.org

You can follow updates from MassJazz.com on Blog, Facebook and Twitter.

For information about visiting Massachusetts, go to MassVacation.com

Sunday, September 2, 2012

Jazz Duo Brotzmann and Adasiewicz Perform at UMASS Amherst on September 6


Peter Brotzmann and Jason Adaiewicz are performing in concert at Bezanson Recital Hall at the Fine Arts Center at University of Massachusetts at Amherst on Thursday, September 6, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

General admission is $10, and $5 for students.

The concert is part of the Magic Triangle/ Solos and Duos presented by UMass/Amherst to promote Black music in an academic setting.

Find out more about jazz and African-American Music Studies at UMASS/Amherst.

For a calendar of upcoming events at the Fine Arts Center, click here

You can get year round information on jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com




Friday, August 31, 2012

Peter Smith Jazz Trio Performing at Boston's Fairmont Battery Wharf Hotel on September 1


Jazz vocalist Peter Smith and his Trio perform at the Fairmont Hotel at Battery Wharf's jazz bar  in downtown Boston on Saturday, September 1, 2012, from 9:00 p.m. to midnight.

Smith, a popular exponent of the American Song Book and the music of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole and Michael Buble, is joined by Yas Ishibashi on piano and Ralph Pepe on acoustic bass.

Find year round information on jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.


Boston Radio Host Eric Jackson Wins National Award for Jazz Expertise


Congratulations to jazz radio host Eric Jackson, winner of the 2012 Duke Dubois Humanitarian Award, who was honored for his longstanding commitment to jazz, jazz radio, jazz education and generous service to the jazz community.

Eric has received numerous awards for his work as one of the nation's leading curators and exponents of jazz.  In 2011 Eric was honored by JazzBoston for his outstanding work on WGBH 89.7 FM.

Find year round information on jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Top of Hub Restaurant in Boston has Live Jazz Seven Days a Week


Read about the grand tradition of live jazz seven days a week at the Top of the Hub Restaurant, published in the current issue of MassJazz Travel Guide, available for free at locations around Massachusetts.

Located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower in Boston's Back Bay, Top of the Hub also boasts an amazing view of greater Boston with its Skywalk Observatory and terrific menus prepared by one of Boston's best culinary teams.

For more information on live jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

To visit Massachusetts, check out MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Where to Hear Live Jazz in Massachusetts


Looking for live jazz in Massachusetts this weekend?  Here's a list of Massachusetts jazz clubs compiled by MassJazz, which promotes the state's jazz scene year round.

You can also find details on jazz brunches taking place at hotels, restaurants and cafes on weekends.

For visitors seeking tourism and travel information, go to MassVacation.com.

For up to date information on jazz any time of year, follow MassJazz on Twitter and Blog.

Jazz Guitar Ace John Pizzarelli Performs at Bull Run Restaurant on September 7


World-famous jazz guitarist John Pizzarelli and his quartet perform in concert at the Bull Run Restaurant in Shirley on Friday, September 7, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.  Tickets to the show are $45 and be be purchased online.

Pizzarelli has been hailed for "reinvigorating the American Songbook and re-popularizing jazz," wrote The Boston Globe.

Here is a schedule of upcoming concerts at Bull Run this fall.

You can find year round details on live jazz and blues in Massachusetts, including festivals, concerts, night clubs, radio programs and campus events, by visiting MassJazz.com.

Find visitor information at MassVacation.com and MerrimackValley.org

New England Conservatory Presents Contemporary Improvisation Concert on Tuesday, September 4


The Contemporary Improvisation Department at the New England Conservatory is celebrating its 40th year with a faculty all-star concert at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 4, 2012 at Brown Hall.  The concert is free and open to the public.

Among the performers: Ran Blake, Aaron Hartley, Anthony Coleman and Dominique Eade.

Here is a  full schedule of concerts at NEC this fall.

You can get year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Jazz Duo Cyrille Aimee and Diego Figueiredo Perform at Scullers Jazz Club on September 5


French jazz vocalist Cyrille Aimee and Brazilian guitarist Diego Figueiredo perform at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.  Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Their music ranges from French gypsy and classic jazz standards to Bossa Nova and popular songs with a distinct sound that embodies their individual and combined talents.  Watch their videos here.

Find an upcoming schedule of jazz at Scullers.

You can get year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Blues Legend Jeff Pitchell Playing at Boston Harbor Hotel Blues Barge Series on August 30


Texas blues guitarist and singer Jeff Pitchell is performing at the Blues Barge at the Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf on Thursday, August 30, 2012 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.  It's the last concert of the summer season at Rowes Wharf overlooking Boston Harbor, and is free and open to the public.

For other summer series concerts through Labor Day, click here.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Red Baraat performs at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts on August 29


Red Baraat, described by NPR as one of the world's best party bands, is performing at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston on Wednesday, August 29, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.  Red Baraat in a nine-piece band led by Sunny Jean that plays an infectious blend of jazz, Latin, go-go and funk.

It's the last concert of the season in the Elaine and Jerome Rosenfeld Concerts in the Courtyard Series at the MFA each summer.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Smooth Jazz at Summer Stock, Cape Cod Playhouse in Dennis, on August 29


The Bart Weisman Smooth Jazz Group, featuring Steve Hambleton (guitar), Rich Hill (bass) & Bart Weisman (drums) is performing the last of the season's Wednesday Night Jazz concerts at the Summer Stock Restaurant, located at the Cape Playhouse in Dennis, on August 29, 2012, starting at 7:00 p.m.  There is no cover charge.


The Summer Stock is located at 36 Hope Lane in Dennis.  For directions click here.

Find year round live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and CapeCodChamber.org.

Salsa Star Willie Colon Performs Free Concert on Boston City Hall Plaza, Thursday, August 30


Nuyorican salsa star Willie Colon is bringing his exciting Latin Big Band sound to Boston City Hall Plaza on Thursday, August 30, 2012, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

The concert is presented by the Mayor's Office of Arts, Tourism and Special Events, and is free to the public.

Born in the Bronx of Puerto Rican parents, Colon is considered a master trombonist, composer, bandleader and entertainer.  He has sold over 30 million records worldwide.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.









Martha's Vineyard Jazz & Blues Summerfest Takes Place on Oak Bluffs on August 31-September 1


The annual Martha's Vineyard Jazz and Blues Summerfest is taking place on Friday, August 31 and Saturday, September 1, 2012 at the Union Chapel in Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard.

Tickets are $20-$25 and can be purchased online.   The concerts take place at 7:00 p.m. each night, with doors opening at 6:00 p.m.  For directions click here.

Presented by Lewis & Kirk Music Productions, this year's performers include Andrea and James Rohlehr and The AndJam Band, Sage, Jay Hoggard, Mimi Jones and Luis Perdomo.

You can find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and Martha's Vineyard Chamber






Blues Guitar Legend Lucky Peterson Performs at Regattabar Jazz Club in Harvard Square on August 30


Blues guitarist and singer Lucky Peterson is performing in concert at the Regattabar Jazz Club in Harvard Square, Cambridge, on Thursday, August 30, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.  Tickets to the show are $20 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Peterson, who was discovered by another blues legend, Willie Dixon, is performing with vocalist Tamara
Peterson, bassist Timothy Waites, drummer Raul Valdes and guitarist Shawn Kellerman.

Located at the Charles Hotel at One Bennett Street in Harvard Square, Regattabar has a full schedule of great live music this fall. 

Find year round details on jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.


Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Week Two of Boston Restaurant Week - ends August 31


Week Two of Boston Restaurant Week is underway at over 200 restaurants in the greater Boston area.

The event, which started on August 19, ends on Friday, August 31, 2012.

The popular dining feast is organized by Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau and American Express. 

Pat Moscaritolo, head of the Bureau,  says it’s a chance for the city’s best chefs “to get creative and showcase seasonal New England ingredients, farm fresh herbs and produce, and local seafood all at a tremendous value to diners. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy the region’s outdoor cafes, patios and harborside dining.”

Numerous restaurants with live jazz are participating, here is a sampling:
  • Boston's Downtown: Les Zygomates, Avenue One at Hyatt Regency Boston, BOND at Langham Hotel
  • Boston's South End: Beehive Jazz Club and Petit Robert Birstro
  • Boston's Back Bay: Skipjack's Restaurant and Top of the Hub Restaurant
  • South Boston/Seaport District: Aura at Seaport Hotel, 606 Congress at Renaissance Hotel
  • Cambridge: Upstairs on the Square
  • Brookline: The Fireplace
  • Belmont: Savinos
For more details on Restaurant Week Boston, visit the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau web site at http://www.bostonusa.com/
 
For more information on jazz in Massachusetts, visit http://www.massjazz.com

Jazz Trumpeter Brian Lynch Brings "Unsung Heroes Project" to Scullers Jazz Club on August 30


Grammy Award-winning trumpet player Brian Lynch is bringing his Unsung Heroes Project to Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Thursday, August 30, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.  Tickets to the show are $30 and can be purchased online or at the door.

The Unsung Heroes Project features compositions by under-appreciated jazz musicians like Louis Smith, Tommy Turrentine, and Idrees Sulieman.

Here is a schedule of upcoming performances at Scullers Jazz Club in September. 

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For information on visiting Massachusetts, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Lance Houston Jazz Quartet Performs at Seaport Boston Hotel on Tuesday, August 21


Check out the Lance Houston Jazz Quartet performing at Tamo Bar & Terrace at Seaport Boston Hotel on Tuesday, August 21, 2012, starting at 6:00 p.m.  The band is led by flugelhorn player Lance Houston.  The performance is free and open to the public.

While there, check out Aura Restaurant at the hotel, one of Boston's favorite dining spots, a participant in this year's Boston Restaurant Week, which runs from August 19-24 and 26-31. 

Find year round live jazz and blues in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Pokey Lafarge and South City Three Perform in Rockport on August 21


Pokey Lafarge and the South City Three, exponents of early jazz, bluegrass and country swing, are performing at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets are $31-$52 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

Find Rockport Music's schedule of upcoming jazz, folk and world music through the summer and fall.

For year round details on jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com or NorthofBoston.org


Saturday, August 18, 2012

Restaurant Week Boston Features over 200 Great Dining Spots


Boston’s semi-annual Restaurant Week is upon us, and there’s no better way to enjoy the city’s hospitality at its finest than by sitting down to a meal.

This year Restaurant Week in Boston runs from August 19-24 and 26-31, 2012.  Over 200 restaurants are participating, according to Patrick Moscaritolo, head of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau, which organizes the event.

Moscaritolo says it’s a chance for the city’s best chefs “to get creative and showcase seasonal New England ingredients, farm fresh herbs and produce, and local seafood all at a tremendous value to diners. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy the region’s outdoor cafes, patios and harborside dining.”

Numerous restaurants with live jazz are participating, here is a sampling:
  • Boston's Downtown: Les Zygomates, Avenue One at Hyatt Regency Boston, BOND at Langham Hotel
  • Boston's South End: Beehive Jazz Club and Petit Robert Birstro
  • Boston's Back Bay: Skipjack's Restaurant and Top of the Hub Restaurant
  • South Boston/Seaport District: Aura at Seaport Hotel, 606 Congress at Renaissance Hotel
  • Cambridge: Upstairs on the Square
  • Brookline: The Fireplace
  • Belmont: Savinos
For more details on Restaurant Week Boston, visit the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau web site at http://www.bostonusa.com/
 
For more information on jazz in Massachusetts, visit http://www.massjazz.com

Friday, August 17, 2012

Wanda Houston Performs at Castle Street Cafe on August 17


Chicago jazz singer Wanda Houston and her band perform at the Castle Street Cafe in Great Barrington on Friday, August 17, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.  There is no cover charge.

Houston is a seasoned jazz vocalist, actor and teacher who has performed around the country in jazz venues and on stage. 

Castle Street Cafe has been serving up great food and live jazz for 23 years.  Check out the jazz schedule at Castle Street Cafe, or follow it on facebook.

You can find year round jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.



Salem Jazz & Soul Festival Takes Place on August 18-19

Joel Larue Smith

The 6th annual Salem Jazz & Soul Festival is taking place on Saturday, August 18 and Sunday, August 19, 2012 from 11:15 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in downtown Salem.

The live, outdoor event, located at Salem Willows, 167 Fort Avenue, is free and open to the public.  For a printable schedule, click here.

Among the performers: Joel Larue Smith, Silvina Moreno,  the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Salem High School Jazz Band, and North Shore Jazz Project All Stars. 

Here is a full schedule of jazz festivals in Massachusetts this summer and fall.

For year round details on live jazz throughout Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.



Jazz Drummer Roy Haynes Performs at Rockport Jazz Festival on August 17


Legendary jazz drummer and Boston native Roy Haynes is performing with his group, the Fountain of Youth Band, at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Friday, August 17, 2012 at 8:00 p.m..  The concert is the final event of the first annual Rockport Jazz Festival, which debuted this week.

Haynes, who grew up in Boston's Roxbury neighborhood, is considered one of the world's best jazz drummers.  In February 2011 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 51st annual Grammy Awards.

Boston Herald jazz writer Bob Young noted, "Roxbury-born Roy Haynes has kept some pretty good company in his nearly seven decades in the music business. Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Pat Metheny have all shared the stage with the man known as the father of modern jazz drumming."

Here is a schedule of upcoming jazz events presented by Rockport Music this fall.

For year round details on jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For tourist information visit MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Waterfront Performing Arts Series - Free Dancing and Music at Boston's Christopher Columbus Park on August 14


The City of Boston's Waterfront Performing Arts Series is presenting free dance lessons plus a night of swing at Christopher Columbus Park in Boston's North End on Tuesday, August 14, 2012, starting at 6:00 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m.

Boston Swing Central, based in Charlestown, is providing free dance lessons for the first hour, then Phil McGowan and the Easy Winners Band brings everything to full swing with an hour of dancing.

The event is free and open to the pubic, and is part of the City of Boston's summer music series taking place all around the city.  For more information, visit the Mayor's Office of Arts, Tourism and Special Events.

For year round details on live jazz throughout Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.








Jazz Vocalist Tierney Sutton Performs in Rockport on August 15


The Tierney Sutton Band  is performing at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Wednesday, August 15, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $31-$52 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

The band features acclaimed jazz vocalist Tierney Sutton,  pianist Christian Jacob, bassist Trey Henry, and drummer Ray Brinke. 

The concert is the kick-off to the 1st annual Rockport Jazz Festival, which debuts this week with a great line-up of jazz performances from August 15-19.  

Rockport Music has an exciting schedule of jazz and other music this summer and fall.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For tourist information, go to MassVacation.com.

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Provincetown Jazz Festival Runs August 11, 13 on Cape Cod

Sharon Clark 

The 8th annual Provincetown Jazz Festival on Cape Cod is taking place on Saturday, August 11 in Provincetown and Monday, August 13, 2012  in Cotuit this year.

Tickets to the event are $25 and can purchased online or at the door. Here is the full schedule.

Among the performers on Saturday, August 11, at Provincetown Town Hall, are jazz vocalist Sharon Clark, saxophonist Paul Carr, pianists Chris Grasso and Alex Brown, drummer Joe McCarthy and bassist Will Slater.

Performers on Monday, August 13, at the Cotuit Center for the Arts,  include Steve Ahearn on trumpet and flute, Bruce Abbott on sax and flute, Fred Boyle on piano, Ron Ormsby on bass, and Bart Weisman on drums.  Mr. Weisman is also the founder and producer of the Provincetown Jazz Festival.

You can find more details on jazz festivals in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com/festivals.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com


Friday, August 10, 2012

Merrimack Jazz Fest: Saturday, August 11 Performers Playing Indoors at Tsongas Arena


News from Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival.

The main event on Saturday August 11th will still take place INSIDE the beautiful Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell.    DOORS open at 2 PM….. MUSIC STARTS at 4PM.   GREAT FOOD, GREAT BANDS, GREAT FUN and all that JAZZ.

Tonight’s weather forecast for the Kick-off event on Friday, August 10 is calling for heavy rain and thunder storms.    Keeping public safety at the forefront we have cancelled tonight’s event only.      There will be no performance at the Sampas Pavilion at the Vandenberg Esplanade.

We hope to see you tomorrow for  the 2nd annual Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival Musical Event!.  Come cheer, chow, sip and swing inside the beautiful Tsongas Center!

For more details MerrimackValleyJazzFestival.




Thursday, August 9, 2012

Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival in Lowell Slated for August 10-11


The 2nd annual Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival is taking place on Friday, August 10 and Saturday, August 11 in Lowell, Massachusetts.

The opening night festivities on Friday take place starting at 5:00 p.m. at the Sampas Pavilion on the Vanderberg Esplanade, and feature six jazz performances ranging from contemporary and classic jazz to Latin and funk.  This night is free and open to the public. 

On Saturday, August 11, the festival moves to the Riverwalk Park behind the Tsongas Center Arena in Lowell, from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m., with doors opening at 2:00 p.m.  In the event of rain the event moves inside the Tsongas.

Tickets to the Saturday festival are $17 if you order tickets online, or $20 the day of the festival at the gate. 

Among the performing artists at this year's Festival: Amanda Carr and the Le Creme de Les Femme, Gregg Hopkins Berklee All-Star Faculty Big Band, UMass/Lowell Faculty Jazz Ensemble, Henri Smith's Friends and Flavours New Orleans Band, Compaq Big Band and Adagio Big Band.

Special guests this year are the Adagio Dancers, a professional dance troupe from Mill City Dance in Lowell.

The festival is sponsored by the Greater Merrimack Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, the Lowell Sun, MassJazz and others.  Here is a full sponsorship list.

Find year round jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For year round tourist information go to MassVacation.com 

Sun Broadcasting Corp Launches Sun Music Live Shows at Wally's Cafe Jazz Club this Fall

Sun Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) has begun production of Sun Music Live. The inaugural shows set at  Wally’s CafĂ©  in Boston will f...